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It has been nearly two weeks now since the State of Utah executed Ronnie Lee Gardner by firing squad for murders he committed some 25-years ago.
For most, that's enough time for life to move on and to put the emotions surrounding the event in the past. Yet, it is also a good time, in KSL's view, for introspection - to examine one's rationale for supporting or opposing capital punishment.
May we suggest a few questions for contemplation!
-Do I believe that capital punishment makes ours a more or less violent society?
-Do I believe capital punishment is a deterrent to crime? Have I explored the body research on that question to provide a basis for my belief?
-How does capital punishment fit in with my personal moral and religious values? Is my position doctrinally sound?
-Is my position on capital punishment consistent with my views on abortion, whether pro-life or pro-choice?
-Should costs associated with capital punishment cases be a factor in the decision to support or oppose the death penalty?
A state-sanctioned execution is a most serious matter. Since it is done in the name of the people, KSL believes each citizen has a responsibility to form a knowledgeable opinion about the practice. What is yours?
